We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Automatic Espresso Machines

From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.

Buying Guide for the Best Automatic Espresso Machines

Automatic espresso machines are a fantastic choice if you want barista-style coffee at home with minimal fuss. These machines do most of the work for you—grinding beans, measuring coffee, brewing shots, and sometimes even frothing milk. When shopping for the right automatic espresso machine, it's important to consider how much control you want over your drinks, how much space you have in your kitchen, and the features that will best fit your daily routine. Understanding the key specs will help you pinpoint the model that matches your lifestyle and coffee habits.
Type (Fully Automatic vs. Semi-Automatic vs. Super-Automatic)The type of machine refers to how much is automated and how much you control. Fully automatic machines automate brewing but may require you to grind and tamp the coffee, while super-automatic machines handle everything from grinding to milk frothing at the push of a button. Semi-automatic machines, on the other hand, give you more manual control for customizing drinks, which can be fun if you enjoy experimenting. If you like one-touch convenience and consistency, a super-automatic is best. If you prefer hands-on control to fine-tune your coffee, a semi-automatic is more your style.
Built-In GrinderSome machines have built-in grinders, letting you grind fresh beans right before brewing. Freshly ground beans usually mean better flavor, so this is a popular feature. Grinders can be conical or flat burrs with adjustable grind sizes. If you value convenience and want fresh coffee every time without extra gear, look for built-in grinders. If you already own a good grinder or prefer using pre-ground coffee, this feature may be less important.
Milk Frothing SystemAutomatic machines can have different milk frothing systems—manual steam wands or fully automatic frothers. Some froth milk directly in your cup, while others use a tube or an integrated carafe. If you mostly drink espresso or americano, milk frothing may not matter much. But if you love cappuccinos or lattes, a high-quality milk system is key. Manual steam wands are best if you like to control foam texture, while automatic frothers are better for quick, hands-free milk drinks.
Water Tank CapacityWater tank size determines how many drinks you can make before refilling. Smaller tanks mean more frequent refills but save space; larger tanks are better for making many drinks or for households with multiple coffee drinkers. Think about how often you’ll brew coffee and your kitchen space to choose a practical water tank size that keeps your workflow smooth.
Drink Customization OptionsCustomization refers to how much control you have over drink strength, temperature, shot size, and milk texture. Some machines let you save user profiles or tweak nearly every detail, while others offer only a few presets. If you prefer experimenting and enjoy different drinks, look for flexible customization. If you mostly drink the same kind of coffee, simpler controls may be all you need.
Ease of Cleaning and MaintenanceAutomatic espresso machines need regular cleaning, especially for brew groups and milk systems. Some models have features like automatic cleaning cycles, removable parts, or alerts for cleaning and descaling. If you want to minimize effort, check how easy it is to access and clean the parts you'll use most. Features that simplify maintenance can save you time and help your machine last longer.
Size and FootprintThe physical size of the machine matters if your kitchen or counter space is limited. Larger machines might have more features but take up more space. Make sure to measure where you plan to put your machine and think about how easy it will be to access and use in your daily routine. Picking the right size ensures your new machine fits into your life—and kitchen—comfortably.